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Why dogs shouldn’t eat scraps from the table

We’ve all seen the faces of desperation from our dogs as we eat our dinner. They want what we’re having and it’s often hard to resist giving them a scrap from our plates. But our pets have very different nutritional needs to us and some of the foods we love can cause serious health issues for dogs. Here’s why you shouldn’t feed your dog table scraps.

Dogs need a balanced diet and choosing a Super Premium pet food will deliver all their required daily nutrients. Treating your dog is fine, as long as you’re choosing healthy options and aren’t treating them too often. ‘Treats’ from your dinner plate shouldn’t be shared with them, not only because over-feeding your dog can result in them gaining weight and put them at risk of obesity, but because some ingredients can lead to serious health issues.

Dangerous ingredients

A slice of chocolate cake is undeniably delicious, but it can spell disaster for our dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic and can result in vomiting, diarrhoea and seizures. In some cases, ingesting it can be fatal. Other sweet additions that can cause issues include grapes (fresh and dried), peaches and plums. Also be aware that apple and pear cores, and specifically their seeds, are toxic for dogs.
On the savoury side of things, make sure you avoid fatty treats such as bacon and hot chips. Even in small amounts, they can cause gastrointestinal upsets and pancreatitis. Cooked bones should also be avoided. When they are no longer in a raw state, bones are likely to splinter and can cause constipation and even pierce your pet’s intestinal tract. Also on the ‘no-go’ list for dogs are foods containing onion and garlic. Onion is poisonous to dogs and, while the effects of garlic are not as extreme, it can still cause side effects. Another important food that is toxic for dogs, even in small amounts, is the macadamia nut. If you suspect that your dog has ingested something they shouldn’t have, contact your local Greencross Vets.

Food allergies and intolerances

Along with the toxic side effects of some foods for dogs, it is also important to understand that some dogs will have food intolerances and allergies. If you notice any signs of gastrointestinal upsets, such as vomiting, diarrhoea or excessive flatulence or skin irritations, your dog may need a specialised diet. Be sure to check in with your local Petbarn team member to find out about the right food choice for your pet.